NBC Montana learned that the wolf had survived a dangerous 500-mile journey before it was killed.

The male wolf was being studied by biologists in Oregon, where the wolf is listed as an endangered species. It was tracked from Oregon, through the middle of Idaho, and up into the Big Hole Valley. We’re told this isn't unheard of for a male wolf in the northwest, but it's a very dangerous route.

"In the world that we live in today, with as many roads, and then with our wolf population expanding and setting up packs, there are a lot of obstacles that they have to get through to disperse,” said Vivaca Crowser, with Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. "Often times their survival rate decreases the further they go."

The reward for information leading to the poacher's conviction is $3,500. Just call 1-800-TIP-MONT.

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